5 Reasons You Need To Build Your Network In The Fashion Industry

Why Do You Need to Build Your Network In The Fashion Industry?

In the fashion industry, a person’s network is their net worth. Why? Because the people you surround yourself with can help you progress your career or your business. This is why you need to build your network in the fashion industry. You know that saying, “It’s not what you know. It’s who you know.” The people in your network are the ones that will most likely bring you your next big opportunity. Your colleagues are going to move around from job to job. They will have the inside scoop on any new or upcoming opportunities in different companies. They can get your foot in the door.

Most people think about networking when they are looking for a job. In reality, one should always be looking to meet new people. When you meet new people you can learn from them, share knowledge and insight, and connect them or yourself with others. The more people you know the more visible you are to others in the industry.

Having a well-rounded group of people in your network can also help you your creativity. When you share your ideas and get feedback from others it helps you think about things from a different perspective. Anna Wintour once said “I surround myself with a talented group of people that are opinionated and interesting. I try to remain very open to what others have to say.”

We couldn’t possibly include everything you need to know about networking in the fashion industry in this one article. So, I created an 8 part Fashionable Networking Blog Series. To read the entire series and get valuable insight, go to the bottom of this page to see all the links. I’ve even thrown in a FREE 6-Day Networking email course to get you started!

5 Advantages Of Having A Large Network

Having a deep network can provide many wonderful advantages. One reason to always grow your network is this gives you a new pool of people to learn from, get their point of view or perspective. They might have a great idea that will make you an all-star in your own organization. Here are the top 5 reasons you should grow your network:

1) Gain Visibility

When you meet new people and collaborate with others you raise your visibility. More people start to hear about you and the awesome work that you do! When this happens opportunities start to come your way.

2) You Have Experienced Council

At different times in your career, you are going to need to able to reach out to people and ask them questions. It is helpful to be able to ask someone who has already gone through what you are trying to do to avoid making mistakes. The more people you know if different areas of the industry and from different companies the more exposure you will have to their past experiences.

3) You Cast A Wider Net

The more people you know in the industry the more people you can reach out to when it is time to look for new clients, opportunities, find collaboration partners, or business partners. It is really a numbers game.

4) Increase Your Value

When you build a strong network of friends, colleagues, peers, and mentors who vouch for your abilities and work ethic you are really building an army of people who are singing your praises. This causes your perceived value to potential new clients or employers to increase. When people hear recommendations directly from those who have worked with you they are much more likely to hire you on the spot.

5) Fast Track Your Career

Networking can help you move up the food chain fast. By network the right way you are more likely to be given opportunities to work on new and better projects. When you work on more projects you gain new skills. When you gain more skills you are ready to take on bigger projects or roles in an organization.

How To Build Your Million Dollar Network

To build a truly useful network of friends and colleagues that you can learn and grow from you should consider the following:

Quantity of People

It’s true that the more people that are in your network the more potential opportunities and resources will be available to you. However, if these people have nothing to contribute, whether it be support or encouragement, then they really are more of an acquaintance. Seek out like-minded people whom you share an interest with and who are equally as ambitious as you.

Quality of People

There is a wonderful article in Forbes that talks about the types of people you should include in your network that will in turn help grow you as a person. The list includes a mentor, a coach, industry insider, trendsetter, connector, idealist, realist, visionary, partner, and the wanna-be.

Well Rounded Network

Try to think outside of your immediate industry or field. You will be surprised what you can learn from other industries that might be applicable to your own. Diversity is key. Try to add people from different industries, backgrounds, age groups, ethnic groups, etc.

Fashionable Networking Blog Series

This article is part of a 5 part Fashionable Networking Blog Series. Learn from the pros how to connect with industry professionals the right way in order to grow your network and build your career or business in the fashion industry. Read the entire series here:

About Pick Glass

Pick Glass is a site designed to be a fantastic resource for fashion go-getters just like you. Here you will find career advise, proven strategies and techniques, and inspirational interviews with industry leaders. You will learn how to work smarter and faster, and get noticed for your awesome creative work.

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